Colt Lightning Etched Panel Double Action Revolver 41 Colt 3.5″ Nickel 1878
SOLD FOR: $1,326.00
LSB#: WY250410SK007
Make: Colt
Model: Lightning
Serial Number: 8499
Year of Manufacture: 1878 (Second Year of Production)
Caliber: .41 Long Colt
Action Type: Double Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate and Fixed Cylinder
Barrel Length: 3.5″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a groove in the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered hard rubber with the Rampant Colt in an oval at the top of each panel. The grips show minor smoothing and age but remain free from cracks or major chips. They rate in Good to Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel with Fire-Blue Accents
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright with sharp rifling and very light erosion from prior pitting. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains approximately 50% of its original nickel finish. The nickel is speckled with flaking and areas of oxidation, primarily on the frame and cylinder. There are faint traces of original fire blue visible on one of the screws and the hammer. The etched barrel panel reading “COLT D.A. 41” is present but faint. The screw heads show mild wear, and the markings are legible. This revolver rates in Good condition overall for its age.
Mechanics: The revolver functions properly in both single and double action. The cylinder locks with minimal play and the break and trigger reset are reliable. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This is a highly collectible second-year production Colt Lightning revolver, manufactured in 1878 and chambered in .41 Long Colt. As Colt’s first double-action revolver, the Lightning played a pivotal role in transitioning from single-action designs, and early examples like this one are particularly sought after by collectors. The 3.5″ barrel and etched “COLT D.A. 41” panel mark it as an early civilian carry gun from the black powder era.
While the finish shows age and oxidation, roughly half the nickel remains intact. The grips are well preserved, and the mechanics are in working order. The etched panel, though faint, is still visible—a feature only found on early production revolvers. The remaining hints of fire blue on small parts add charm and originality.
Colt Lightning revolvers from this early production window seldom surface with this much originality intact. This is a fine addition for any advanced Colt or Old West-era revolver collection. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
